Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Today is the one-month anniversary since I held a press conference announcing my termination from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. I promised to use this blog to keep my friends and readers up to date on the events in my life. So, here goes:

I've been busy working on an exciting temporary, out-of-state writing assignment that ironically presented itself just days after my abrupt departure from the Post.

There's been much time for reflection. In hindsight, I clearly see the path that led up to that fateful day one month ago. Stay tuned. I plan to share that story here soon. However, in these past 30 days, I'm beginning to see another path -- one that's more in tune with my passions and ambitions. I'll share more on this at the appropriate time as well.

To be brief, the Brown Family's getting by. Between feelings of shock, anger, embarrassment and fear about my personal and family's future, there have also been moments of sheer joy -- re-connecting with friends and family, catching up on long-overdue necessities and, most profound, once again existing in that familiar, but exciting realm of limitless possibilities.

The letter below, sent to me by Sister Gail Trippett former principal at Central Catholic/St. Nicholas School, comforts, inspires and speaks to the eternal optimist within me. Sis. Gail challenges me to "send blessing thoughts" to those who orchestrated my termination. That's a tall order, but one that resonates.

Sis Gail gave permission to share her thoughts:

"Hello Mr. Brown,

I was recently talking to Fr. Gerry (Kleba) and found out you were no longer at the Post. I was gravely sorry to hear that such a wonderful voice would not be guiding the minds of the community.

After I heard what happened, I took back the sadness. I hear underneath the situation a call from God. This situation is highlighting that He is ready for you to do more in another venue.

I recently listened to a tape from one of my favorite authors and she said if you are comfortable where you are and it is time for you to move to another calling, the universe cooperates with God to light a fire under your feet for you to move. She further said, "You will either be fired, or some other major event to get your attention to move."

This is your God calling moment. You are destined to touch the lives of many people in ways you cannot imagine. May you walk into your new blessed life knowing that you have all you need to do God's will.

Send blessing thoughts to all who helped cause this to happen. They did not know they were part of a larger plan to bless you even more. Take peace and blessing with you as you move into your destiny. "

Featured on OpEd News

Featured on ReadWave

Share This

About Me

Born and raised in St. Louis. In 1987 started Take Five Magazine, a pro-active, community-based, investigative publication. Operated for 15 years. Hired as Metro columnist with the St. Louis Post Dispatch in 2002. Brought Bill Cosby to town, debated Bill O'Reilly and wrote a column that saved a baby's life. After leaving the Post-Dispatch in 2009, started working with SmileyBooks as a consultant and writing contributor. Founded When We Dream Together, a nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing urban communities in 2011. In 2012, began "The Sweet Potato Project," a summer program aimed at teaching "at-risk" youth entrepreneurial skills. Students planted sweet potatoes that they turned into a viable, marketable product-a sweet potato cookie. Currently running both nonprofits, working as a freelance writer and consultant and about to enter the self-publishing arena.

Subscribe Now: Feed Icon

Disclaimer

Commentary on this blog represents my views and opinions only. All items are subjective, except where specified and/or stated otherwise. Videos, clips, quotes, statements, etc., are included for emphasis, clarification, verification or as follow-up sources for particular subjects and issues. Usage of this material does not imply, express or emphasis any other views other than what is implied in the blog posting. There is no connection between this site and any other site, organization, company or publication of a similar name or previous association. -- Sylvester Brown.